Byrne didn't mention Bloch at all in his terse farewell email to colleagues:

Colleagues,

As you may have heard, I am resigning my career Senior Executive Service position as Deputy Special Counsel effective July 19, 2008. I am grateful for the opportunities I have been afforded during my time at OSC, and I leave with a deep admiration for all of you -- the men and women who dedicate their lives to safeguarding the merit system and to protecting federal employees from prohibited personnel practices. Please let me know if there is anything that I need to tend to prior to my departure. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

All the best,

Jim

A spokesman for Bloch's office did not return a call for comment.

By our count, Bloch has been through at least three deputies since he took office in 2004.